Residents of Mitthu Basti Protest Against Petrol Pump, Public Outrage Mounts

May 29, 2026

Jalandhar: The anger of local residents and motorists regarding the operations of a petrol pump located in the Mittu Basti area has reached a boiling point. Levelling serious allegations of irregularities, arbitrary conduct, and a blatant disregard for safety standards against the pump management, a large crowd gathered outside the pump premises to stage a protest.

The protesters have made it clear that if immediate action is not taken, they will block the National Highway and launch an intense agitation. The primary cause of the locals’ outrage is the negligence being shown regarding safety protocols. The protesters claim that there have already been three separate fire incidents at this petrol pump. Fortunately, the fires were brought under control in time; otherwise, a major loss of life could have occurred in this densely populated area.

Residents assert that this petrol pump acts like a “time bomb” for the entire locality and must be relocated outside this residential zone. Motorists have also alleged discrepancies in both the quantity and quality of fuel dispensed at the pump (short-measuring). According to local residents, despite repeated complaints, there has been no improvement in the conduct of the pump operator. The concerned department has, thus far, failed to take any concrete cognizance of these complaints, and safety standards continue to be consistently ignored. The Ward Councilor, Mukesh Puri, has also extended his support to the public’s demands and has called for police intervention.

In a stern tone, he declared that compromising public safety would not be tolerated and vowed that he would not rest until this petrol pump is removed from the area. Upon receiving reports of the commotion, local police forces rushed to the scene and brought the situation under control. While pacifying the protesters, police officials assured them that an impartial inquiry into the allegations would be conducted.

The administration has given assurances that if the petrol pump operator is found guilty during the investigation, strict legal action will be initiated against them. Currently, a tense calm prevails in the area, and all eyes remain fixed on the administration’s next course of action.